Public Health and International Economic Law: Alcohol Labeling, Obesity Prevention Laws and Beyond
This lunch series aims to examine the relationship between international investment law cases and sustainable development goals and practices.
Investor-state dispute settlement cases have significant public policy implications, including in the areas of health, environmental protection, economic development and taxation.
This lunch series aims to examine the relationship between international investment law cases and sustainable development goals and practices.
On Monday, July 2, 2018, we hosted a lunch discussion examining whether various government measures to protect public health may run counter to international trade and investment agreements. We invited national and international policy-makers, academics and students to explore and discuss the following questions:
- What would be the legal bases for these challenges?
- What do these rules mean for governments' policy space?
- How will this affect progress in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals?
Andrew Mitchell, Professor at Melbourne Law School, led the debate and discussion on the impact of international economic law on public health.
Upcoming events
2026 Investment Policy Forum
The 17th edition of IISD's Investment Policy Forum will take place from September 16 to 18, 2026, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Unpacking National Investment Laws: Dispute settlement
Join IISD and UNCTAD for a webinar on May 7 as we explore key findings and recommendations from two recent publications on national investment laws and their investor–state dispute settlement provisions. A panel of experts will discuss the risks posed by dispute settlement provisions in investment laws, emerging good practices, and the urgent need for coherence between domestic legal frameworks and international treaty reform efforts.
Weathering the Waters: Building climate resilience that pays off
Join us to explore Canada’s adaptation progress, the rising costs of delay (water, floods, drought), and new ways to finance resilience.
Natural Solutions for Water Security: Canada's Policy Path Forward
This 2-day forum aims to advance strategic priorities and define practical next steps for accelerating the adoption of natural infrastructure as a new normal.